Avidyne has begun marketing its attitude-based DFC90 autopilot to owners of Piper PA-46 Matrix and Mirage aircraft.
The digital autopilot has been rapidly adopted by 25 percent of the owners of Entegra-equipped Cirrus aircraft, and Avidyne is hoping for similar adoption rates among PA-46 owners. The DFC90 offers “envelope protection” from autopilot-commanded stalls and overspeeds as well as a straight-and-level feature that can right the aircraft from an unusual attitude.
“The attitude-based DFC90 provides considerable more performance and safety benefits that make it a very attractive upgrade option for Entegra-equipped Matrix and Mirage aircraft,” said Patrick Herguth, Avidyne chief operating officer.
Owners of Entegra-equipped Matrix and Mirage aircraft can place a deposit, reserving an early slot for the DFC90 at significant savings.
“The DFC90 has proven to be an incredibly successful product for Avidyne, and we are confident that Matrix and Mirage owners will be equally thrilled with the performance and safety improvements this autopilot brings to their airplane,” said Dan Schwinn, Avidyne president and chief executive. “Avidyne has always been committed to continuously enhancing safety for all of our customers, and with the DFC90 upgrade, these loyal Entegra owners now have access to the next generation in autopilot technology.”
The DFC90 is currently FAA certified for the Cirrus SR20 and SR22 aircraft, and Avidyne is seeking certification for PA-46 aircraft next. Avidyne also plans to market the DFC90 jointly with Aspen for use with Aspen’s EFD1000 PFDs and MFDs.
The retail price for a DFC90 for the PA-46 is $14,995, Avidyne officials said.
Dave Hirschman
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